You might have seen small pouches that people place in their mouths, often marketed as a discreet way to get nicotine or caffeine. These products have become more common. While they might seem harmless or like a quick pick-me-up, health experts warn about their serious dangers for both children and adults. Let's break down what these pouches are and why they pose significant health risks.

What are nicotine and caffeine pouches?

Nicotine pouches are small, pre-portioned packets containing nicotine, flavorings, and other ingredients. They are placed between the gum and lip, allowing nicotine to be absorbed into the bloodstream without smoking or vaping. Caffeine pouches work similarly, delivering a dose of caffeine through the mouth. They often come in appealing flavors and can be easily mistaken for candy, especially by children.

The dangers of nicotine pouches

Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical, and these pouches deliver it in varying strengths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that nicotine is especially dangerous for youth, young adults, and pregnant women. Here's why they're concerning:

• Addiction: Nicotine is very addictive. Regular use can quickly lead to dependence, making it hard to stop.
• Harm to Developing Brains: For children and teenagers, nicotine is especially harmful as brain development continues until about age 25. It can affect parts of the brain that control learning, mood, memory, attention, and impulse control, potentially causing long-lasting problems.
• Heart and Breathing Issues: Nicotine can cause an elevation in your blood pressure, which can lead to heart issues and increase your risk of having a stroke. It can also lead to problems with your pulmonary (breathing) system.
• Nicotine Poisoning: Frequent use can lead to nicotine toxicity. For children, even a small amount can be very dangerous. Symptoms can include vomiting, rapid heart rate, unsteadiness, increased salivation, dizziness, tremors, and even seizures. In severe cases, it can lead to breathing problems and even death.  
• Hidden Chemicals: A study mentioned by the American Lung Association found that some nicotine pouch products contained cancer-causing chemicals like ammonia, chromium, and formaldehyde.
• No Safe Tobacco Product: The CDC emphasizes that there are no safe tobacco products, including nicotine pouches.

The dangers of caffeine pouches

Caffeine pouches deliver a quick and often high dose of caffeine directly into your system. This rapid absorption can be particularly risky:

• Heart Problems: A sudden rush of caffeine can raise your heart rate and blood pressure, and even cause irregular heartbeats, especially in young people. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) warns that large amounts of caffeine can cause serious heart and blood vessel problems.
• Anxiety and Sleep Issues: Too much caffeine can lead to anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and trouble sleeping.
• Digestive Problems: Nausea, headaches, and stomach upset are common side effects.
• Caffeine Overdose: High doses can cause severe symptoms, including a racing or irregular heartbeat, fast breathing, uncontrollable body shaking (tremors), anxious feelings, and inability to sit still. The NIH also mentions severe effects like seizures, arrhythmias, and even cardiac arrest in extreme cases. Children and teens are more sensitive to caffeine's effects.

Why children are especially vulnerable

Children are at a much higher risk from both nicotine and caffeine pouches. Their smaller body size means they can be poisoned by much lower amounts. The appealing flavors and candy-like appearance of these pouches make accidental ingestion a serious concern. Their developing brains and bodies are also more sensitive to the harmful effects of these substances.

What to do in an emergency

If you suspect someone, especially a child, has ingested a nicotine or caffeine pouch and is showing symptoms of poisoning or overdose, seek medical help immediately. Call your local poison control center or emergency services right away.

Stay informed and stay safe

Nicotine and caffeine pouches are not safe alternatives to other products, and they carry significant health risks for everyone. It's important to be aware of these dangers and keep such products out of reach of children. If you have questions or concerns about these products, talk to your healthcare provider.